Harassment includes repeated unwanted contact, threats, intimidation, surveillance, interference with property, or disturbing your peace. This guide shows how to document it and force police or council action under UK law.
👁️ Common Examples of Harassment
- Landlord visiting or messaging constantly without consent
- Ex-partner following, calling, or loitering near your home
- Neighbours banging, shouting, or targeting you daily
- Repeated visits by unknown persons with hostile behaviour
📖 How to Record Evidence
- Keep a written log with dates, times, locations, and quotes
- Save all texts, emails, voicemails, notes through the door
- Use CCTV, phone recording, or witness statements where possible
- Label each entry clearly — show the repeated pattern
💬 Template Police Report Wording
I am reporting a course of conduct amounting to harassment under the Protection from Harassment Act 1997. The individual has contacted or attended my property [insert number] times in [insert time period], causing distress and alarm. I believe this behaviour is criminal and request that it be recorded as a crime, not a civil matter.
🚔 When Police Say “It’s Civil”
If police dismiss it as a civil issue, quote the Protection from Harassment Act 1997. Repeated unwanted contact (even verbal or silent) is criminal when it causes distress or fear. You are entitled to ask for a crime number and pursue complaint escalation if refused.
⚖️ When to Go to Court
- If police refuse to act, consider applying for a non-harassment order (Scotland) or injunction/restraining order (England/Wales)
- These can ban all contact or visits, with arrest powers if breached
- You may qualify for legal aid if abuse or threats are involved
🔧 Council Powers
- Local council anti-social behaviour teams can intervene
- They can issue warnings, tenancy sanctions, or Community Protection Notices (CPNs)
- This is especially effective in housing association or council properties